April 2009

This week’s question concerns greenhouse gas emissions. After a two-year scientific review mandated by the U.S. Supreme Court, the Environmental Protection Administration has identified six greenhouse gases - carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and sulfur hexafluoride – as primary contributors to air pollution and global warming. Industry observers believe the findings could prompt the EPA to pass stricter regulations on emissions from vehicles, power plants, and other pollution sources, or prompt the U.S. government to devise stringent legislation on greenhouse gases. Critics worry stricter greenhouse gas regulations would hurt consumers and businesses by raising energy costs in an already-weak economy. What do you think? Will stricter greenhouse gas emissions regulations hurt the U.S. economy? Yes or no?

Vote here.